Sunderland ‘eyeing’ £10m Schalke midfielder Soufiane El-Faouzi | OneFootball

Sunderland are being linked with a summer move for Schalke midfielder Soufiane El-Faouzi. According to Football Insider, the Black Cats are among several clubs monitoring the 23-year-old ahead of the window.

Brentford, Bologna and Rennes are also credited with interest, with Celtic and Rangers likewise tracking the player. Should a race develop, Premier League sides could be better placed financially.

El-Faouzi played a major role in Schalke’s promotion back to the Bundesliga this season. He made 35 appearances, starting every match, and recorded two goals and five assists. Schalke are reluctant to sell after going up, and it is thought a fee around £10million would be needed to tempt them.

That price point could make a move difficult for Celtic and Rangers. Sunderland and Brentford may be in a stronger position if either club decide to firm up interest.

For Sunderland, the link comes as planning accelerates for a second season back in the Premier League. Régis Le Bris’ side have shown a willingness to recruit from overseas, and El-Faouzi fits the profile of a player on an upward curve.

Midfield is expected to be one to watch as they look to strengthen and build on an encouraging first campaign back in the top flight. For now, it remains a situation to monitor, with Schalke under no pressure to sell and competition from England, Italy and France. If Sunderland do advance their interest, Premier League status could make them serious contenders.

Source: Sunderland Echo